Expansion Records

Disc 1

Disc 2

Disc 3

Luxury Soul 2026

Label: Expansion Records

Format: 3CD Box Set (Unmixed)

Catalog Number: CDBEXP 26 Release Date: January 16, 2026

Disc 1: The New Guard & Modern Anthems

Focuses on the frontline of modern soul, featuring many tracks making their CD debut.

• Ashley Scott – "Always": A standout track from the Philly-based artist that opens the collection with a high-gloss, sophisticated energy.

• Cornell C.C. Carter – "Lift It Up": A powerhouse performance from the man who has become the modern face of the label.

• Somebody Tell Joe ft. Kathy Sledge – "This Is A Feeling": A massive collaboration bringing Sister Sledge royalty to a fresh Philadelphia production.

• Windy Karigianes – "Falling For You" (Georgie B Remix): A remix with a distinct early-80s Teena Marie vibe.

Disc 2: The Sophisticated Groove

Showcases the smoother, "West Coast" and "Sophisti-soul" side of the genre.

• Evelyn 'Champagne' King – "A Whole Lotta Yum Yum" (Georgie B Remix): An exclusive remix for this compilation, proving that the "Queen of Boogie" is still at the top of her game.

• Steve Nichol ft. Debby Bracknell – "Senorita": Seasoned production from the former Loose Ends architect.

• Sheree Brown – "Just A Simple Man": A return from the soul legend we discussed earlier, maintaining her signature organic sound.

• Victor Haynes – "Feel" (2026 Remix): A refreshed version of a UK soul favorite.

Disc 3: Heritage & Rare Gems

A mix of contemporary remixes of classics and rare "back-catalogue" treasures.

• Middle 8 ft. Judy La Rose – "Southern Freeez" (The Paradise Projex Mix): A contemporary reimagining of the Brit-Funk classic.

• Mascara – "See You In L.A.": A highly sought-after heritage track that rarely appears on compilations.

• Kadenza – "Let's Do It": Another deep-cut heritage inclusion that adds significant value for collectors.

• Rockie Robbins – "A Night to Remember": A smooth, soulful cover of the Shalamar classic.

Fascinating Collector Facts & Figures

1. The "CD Debut" Factor

Expansion prides itself on "physical firsts."

• The Figure: Over 80% of the tracks on this 3CD set are making their debut on the CD format. Many were previously available only as digital singles or extremely limited 7-inch vinyl runs.

2. The 40th Anniversary Hub

Because 2026 is Expansion’s 40th year, the curation of CDBEXP 26 is noticeably tighter than previous years.

• The Fact: The label used this release to "bridge" their history, featuring artists they first worked with in the 80s (like Sheree Brown and Evelyn King) alongside the rising UK stars like Harry Linacre.

3. The Georgie B Influence

Georgie B (of The Groove Association) has become the "house remixer" for this era of Expansion.

• The Figure: He contributes three major remixes to this pack (Evelyn King, Windy Karigianes, and Georgie B & The Groove Association), giving the compilation a consistent, high-fidelity "2026 sound."

4. The Value Proposition

• The Figure: At a retail price of approximately £17–£20, the set provides 35 full-length, unmixed tracks. If purchased individually on limited vinyl, these tracks would cost a collector well over £300.

Technical Specs for Audiophiles

• Mastering: Unlike many modern compilations, this is unmixed, meaning tracks are presented in full with their original intros and outros for DJ use.

• Packaging: The "Triplepack" comes in a slimline multi-disc jewel case or eco-friendly gatefold (depending on the specific batch), typically including a booklet with artist biographies curated by Ralph Tee.

Collector's Tip: This CD set is traditionally released to coincide with the Luxury Soul Weekender in Blackpool. If you are a fan of the "Expansion sound," this triple pack may act as the perfect souvenir or "study guide" for artists performing at the event.